An East Devon teenage beekeeper plucked to represent the UK in an international competition is buzzing his team scooped third place.
Harry Burrough, aged 17, from Clyst Hydon, recently returned from Ireland and the International Meeting of Young Beekeepers, where youngsters took part in a practical challenges and competitions to showcase their skills.
After Harry and his two teammates went head-to-head against 28 countries, the trio achieved the UK team’s highest placing in more than a decade.
Harry, who secured his place on the UK team after a ‘rigorous’ selection process of interviews and training sessions under the scrutiny of the British Beekeepers Association, said: “It was a huge honour to be chosen to represent the UK alongside two other talented young beekeepers.”
The teenager’s beekeeping hobby was sparked after spotting some old equipment in a barn that had belonged to his grandmother.
Harry Burrough’s beekeeping hobby has turned into a successful business. Photo: with permission.
Curious, and keen to learn more, Harry’s mum contacted the East Devon Beekeepers Association, who gave the teenager advice and training.
In a bid to boost his skills, Harry set up two hives on the family farm in East Devon.
He now manages more than 80 colonies, and produces starter colonies – known in the industry as nucs – that he sells to new and experienced beekeepers.
Harry’s passion for beekeeping has earned him a loyal following on social media. His hobby has turned into a successful business. He now supplies honey and bees through his website.
He said: “Finding my grandmother’s old beekeeping equipment in an old barn is what started all of this.
“I only wish she had been alive to see my discovery, as she would be incredibly proud to see where it has led.
“It was a strange way for her to introduce me to beekeeping but nevertheless she did, and now it is particularly important in my life.
“What began as a curiosity has grown into something I am truly passionate about, and representing the UK internationally is something I never imagined when I first opened those old boxes of equipment.”
The 2026 International Meeting of Young Beekeepers was for the first time held in Northern Ireland.
The competition took place at Riddel Hall, where the teams of young beekeepers, aged 12 to 18, were put to the test.
